J Pod and L Pod May 27 2010 40+ Orca Whales
We received word that we had killer whales inbound from the west coast of Vancouver Island as we got ready to leave on our whale watching tour. The orcas were just outside our range but we decided to make a run for it and did it pay off.
Our first stop was Race Rocks Ecological Reserve where we viewed Steller Sea Lions, California Sea Lions and One Elephant Seal. The male Sea Lions were fighting over the "prime real estate" and put on a good show.
The it was off to see the orcas as we slowed we began to see blows from whales spread out into many different family groups. The new calves were playful and we then had a large male breach about 250 meters from the boat, who we later i.d. as J26 Mike. They were definitely happy whales and socializing.
We the watched J26 "Mike" mating with a unknown female from L Pod. We spent 45 minutes with numerous different sub groups. It sure is great to have the residents back in our waters.
